Oatlands Infant School is celebrating a "wonderful outcome" following its most recent Ofsted inspection.
The inspection was completed in December under the recently revised Ofsted framework, which has removed the use of grades for overall effectiveness from their inspections.
In the report, the Inspector noted that pupils were ‘proud’ to be a part of the school and that they thrive in an ‘inclusive environment’ where the development of pupils’ character is made a priority.
Parents and carers were described as ‘overwhelmingly happy with the wealth of opportunities and experiences their children have’.
These include the Bike Bus initiative and a wide range of activities which take place during school lunchtimes.
This physical activity, which often extends to involve the wider community, has contributed to the ‘outstanding’ grade the school has been awarded for ‘personal development’.
Mr Christopher Harrison, Headteacher of Oatlands Infant School, said:
“I am delighted that our hard work around inclusion, physical activity, wellbeing and happiness has been recognised in our latest Ofsted inspection.
“Every child, regardless of their background, has a right to feel loved – and so do the teachers!
“We work really hard with our wider community to provide our children with an exciting, experience-led education that lays the foundations for happy, healthy lives.
“From our Bike Bus and Bike Library to our Secret Garden, School therapy dog, on-site gym and amazing ‘experience days’, we strive to make learning fun, inclusive and engaging for all children in our care.
“This is delivered by an expert team of passionate pedagogues who love to work with our amazing children.
“Happiness and joy sit at the centre of what we do, where we champion each and every unique and wonderful child whilst they journey through our exciting curricular offer.
“You’re only a child once, so you might as well enjoy it!”
The Inspector noted that pupils have a love of reading, and they learn to read ‘quickly and fluently’.
The books made available ‘develop pupils’ understanding of the wider world and allow opportunities to reflect on morals and equalities’.
This impacts the pupils’ behaviour as they treat each other and adults with kindness and respect.
It was reported that ‘children make a strong start in the early years. The outdoor area provides a wealth of opportunities to develop large-muscle strength and be active throughout the day.’
It continued, ‘children display independence when getting ready for the end of the day, and when rehearsing mathematical knowledge through songs and rhymes taught to them by staff’.
The report also praised the support available to pupils with SEND.
Parent/carers are involved in the shaping of any support put in place, and thanks to the staff expertise, these students thrive both socially and academically at Oatlands Infant School.
According to the report, pupils are happy to attend the school where the staff/pupil relationships are described as ‘highly nurturing’ and pupils are comfortable to ‘be themselves’ in the welcoming environment.
The report also refers to the support the school gets from governors and trustees, who ‘work well together to ensure the school is doing its best’.
Staff are extremely proud to work at the school and regularly ‘engage in training that develops their expertise’.
They also benefit from opportunities to collaborate with colleagues across Yorkshire Causeway Schools Trust in order to continually develop and share good practice in the classroom.
Jane Goodwin, Chief Executive of Yorkshire Causeway Schools Trust said:
“Knowing the values-led commitment that has gone into Oatlands Infant School, this inspection report is a great reflection of what a special place it is.
“Focussed on ambition and support for staff and children alike, the school is a hive of enthusiasm and passion for giving the children the very best start in life.
“I was delighted with the feedback that inspectors received from parents, children and staff which really endorse Oatlands Infants as a great place of learning in its widest sense.”
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